Man who drove with dogs in back of truck won’t be charged: Alberta SPCA

EDMONTON – A man who drove his pickup down a highway near Edmonton with two dogs on top of the truck-bed cover will not face charges.

The Alberta SPCA says an investigator has checked the dogs and determined they weren't hurt.

The officer also spoke with the driver about the dangers of driving with dogs in the back of his truck.

Spokesman Roland Lines says the Alberta SPCA is confident that the man understood the message and won't do it again.

On Sunday, a couple who watched the man drive at speeds of more than 110 km/h along the Yellowhead Highway filed a report to the SPCA that included photos and video.

Lines says some people will be upset with the decision not to lay charges.

"I have spoken to people who have witnessed the tragic outcomes that can result from unsafe transport, and I have received many messages demanding we lay charges," Lines said Thursday.

"It is extremely frightening and frustrating to see animals transported in this manner, but that doesn't mean charges are appropriate."

Alberta's Animal Protection Act states that animals must be contained in a compartment and protected from possible harm.

The law also has rules around footing for animals and not being exposed to undue danger.

Lines said the Alberta SPCA hopes what happened will increase public awareness about the need to transport animals safely.

Spruce Grove RCMP also investigated, but no charges were laid.